Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated that low-intensity extracorporeal shock waves (LiESWL) are capable of improving sensations, especially in those patients with milder forms of sexual dysfunction. Up to 40% of patients who take pills are either dissatisfied or find the side effects intolerable. Shock wave therapy helps many of these patients to get off the drugs.

Animal studies have allowed us to determine the actual mechanism of action. When the shock waves bend cells, growth factors are released. New blood vessels are formed (angiogenesis) nerves are regenerated, and progenitor cells or stem cells are either activated or recruited. There is also a reduction in inflammation.

Shock waves don't work on everybody. Patients who are on the most extreme end of the spectrum, and those who have had radical pelvic surgery are unlikely to benefit.

• Patients who would prefer a more natural approach.
• Patients who have experienced unpleasant side effects from pde5-inhibitors.
• Patients who are unhappy with the inconvenience of sexual disfunction.
• Patients who are dissatisfied with vacoactive injection therapy.
• Patients who have noted a gradual decline in sensation during intercourse.

• Patients who have known bleeding dyscrasias (i.e., patients who have trouble clotting or who are prone to bleeding heavily.)
• Patients who are on blood thinners including but not limited to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, aspirin, coumadin, Eliquis, Pradaxa, Fragmin, Savaysa, Lovenox, Arixtra, Heparin, and Rivaroxaban.
• Patients who have had complete sexual dysfunction for more than three years, or developed sexual dysfunction after pelvic surgery such as radical prostatectomy are unlikely to benefit.

HerWave can be performed sitting, standing, or laying down. Unlike other acoustic wave machines HerWave is nearly silent. It does not create jarring sounds that will frighten other people at home.

We recommend that a water-soluble lubricant be applied to the area prior to use. This will help to facilitate the HerWave tip gently gliding over the surface, and acts as coupling agent to facilitate transmission of the shock wave.

Most patients will find the treatment to be pleasant and calming. For those that have heightened sensitivity, 5% Lidocaine jelly (which does not require a prescription) is readily available at drug stores. We also make both the water-soluble lubricant and Lidocaine jelly available on our website.

The device should be fully charged prior to use. With our premium battery that is included in each unit, each charge will last for multiple applications. The device is easily powered on by depressing the button at the bottom of the unit. Pressing the button a second and third time will sequentially increase the frequency.

Following treatment there are no particular restrictions, other than to not engage in sexual activity the day of the treatment. Patients who are taking pde5-inhibitors may continue this practice. Patients may not receive maximum benefit from the HerWave treatments for 3 months or longer, and it would not be unusual for patients to continue to require medications particularly during the early weeks of treatment. Similarly, patients may continue to use injections, although not on the same day as treatment.

Not all patients will be able to discontinue the use of medications, injections, or vacuum devices. Some patients may notice that their desires are better than they were previously, but they may still need additional support.

HerWave knows that sexual dysfunction is a sensitive issue, and we want everyone who purchases any of our products to get the best possible outcome. We stand by our products. Please contact us with any concerns or questions during normal office hours.